For the first time this season, TNAB failed to put anyone on the summit. The goal this night was West Granite Mountain, but it was more like "Wet" Granite Mountain. The group (Amy, Chris, Dan, Don, Larry, Mark, Merrilee & Rascal!) started out from the dry Eastside and headed into the clouds. It didn't take long to encounter rain on the drive out, but it was fairly light drizzle by the time we reached Exit 47.
The approach hike to West Granite is a good, well-maintained trail with gradual elevation gain. The clouds hung low and foglike, giving the evening a more surreal feel. Approximately 70-75 minutes into the hike, we started reaching the point above Ollalie Lake where we needed to leave the trail and begin the bushwhack up to the ridge. Here's where the "fun" started.
Under the best conditions, the bushwhack and talus scramble to the top of West Granite make it a lengthy hike. We were dealt soaking wet underbrush, slimy, mossy granite, and poor visibility. I, for one, was completely soaked before I was even halfway up the slope. Conditions made it slow going for all, especially poor Rascal, who just isn't equipped to handle a large talus field.
Shortly after 8:00 PM, it was dark, gloomy, with the promise of more rain. Larry was sure we were still 20 minutes away from the summit, at least. The decision to turn back was an easy one. We descended the ridge, made sure everyone was out on the trail, then made a a beeline for the cars, dry clothes and warmth. It has been several months since the weather had a influence on a hike - kind forgot what it was like to hike in the rain!
Next Week: Hike Holiday! If you'd like to do a hike anyway, Chris has requested a return to Humpback Mountain. Very short, very direct, but a worthy experience.
On Deck: Undecided! Suppose to be Tinkham Peak, but the days are growing shorter - probably good to stick with the more simple hikes. Maybe Bandera again? I'm taking requests!
***Hard to believe, but we are just four weeks away from the scheduled Rattlesnake Ledge BBQ season finale! New idea for the this year's shirt: Front: (Inspiring Mountain Photo) Text: TNAB: It's More Than Just a Hike, It's a Way... Back Text: ...To Get Wet, Dirty, Sweaty, Hot, Bug-Bitten, Sunburned, Blisters, (you get the idea). Background scene: a group shot or collage of TNAB suffering - blood, slings, bandages, etc. Unless a MUCH better idea comes up, I'll go forward with this one- design ideas welcome, but I need them soon!
Staying Dry, -Mark
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